Lightening Strike

[bsr2002]

Just had a lightening strike at my house yesterday. Lost use of my Samsung STB and my VCR. Also Both digital inputs no longer function on my AV Receiver. I had a surge protector, so I'm guessing that I had a direct hit. Is any of this repairable or do I need to buy more components? :scary: If I do replace these components, will this stuff protect my stuff better? http://www.upsforless.com/

Thanks in advance,
Ben :cry:

 

[Digital Dude]

If you haven't had a claim for a while your homeowners insurance may cover it.
The STB is most likely repairable by a company about 60 miles from Indy. I'll look up their info and get back to you.

 

[damaged]

Sorry for your loss, did the suppressor have a protection guarantee?

Keep in mind surge suppressors wear out over time and must be replaced, unfortunately, that time is based on how many times the protection has been triggered, so there is usually no real way to know when to replace them (it's usually suggested that it should be at least once per year), it is better to use a UPS with equipment you want truly protected. UPS' work differently than suppressors so it will offer superior protection.

For more information on why suppressors work(or don't) like they do see:
http://www.surgex.com/library/33001-2.html

Here you can find a buyers guide to what to look for in a UPS for your scenario.
http://businessweek.buyerzone.com/computers/upss/buyers_guide1.html

 

[bsr2002]

I also notice that my OTA signals are very weak since the storm. Did it affect my RG-6 line as well? Or could it be something else?

 

[damaged]

There could be moisture (rain/flood waters) in the connectors if you have a dish+ota+diplexors with a multiswitch. I supposed if it was a direct lightning hit the rg6 or connectors could be physically comprimised in some way. (run a new coax run)

If you use an outdoor antenna make sure it isn't damaged (especially if it has an amp), and if it's directional make sure its pointed right, shrug.

Without knowing your whole setup it is hard to say.